Synonyms

busyness

American

[biz-ee-nis] / ˈbɪz i nɪs /

noun

the quality or condition of being busy.
lively but meaningless activity.

Other Word Forms

nonbusyness noun

Etymology

Origin of busyness

First recorded in 1840–50; busy + -ness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Siad compared his recruiting efforts to fishing: “In This busyness I feel like fisherman some time I cache quick , some time no fish.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

Now there is talk of a dual carriageway, better rail services, new homes, new reservoirs; a splurge of busyness to transform the region into "Britain's Silicon Valley".

From BBC • Jan. 29, 2025

The problem lies in our society’s continued glorification of busyness and normalization of sleep deprivation.

From Salon • Jan. 27, 2024

Take a look back to identify your sources of happiness, and resolve for these next 12 months to protect time for them amid the busyness of life.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 2, 2024

She comes over for a hug, but I hold up the mess of flowers in front of my face, with a smile, to indicate my unfortunate busyness.

From "Saints and Misfits" by S.K. Ali

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023